Avram Grant has heaped praise on talismanic midfielder Scott Parker, lauding the two-time Hammer of the Year as the best professional he has ever worked with.
West Ham United's all-action No8 has been in typically outstanding form in 2010/11, with his non-stop performances leading to renewed calls for his inclusion in the full England squad.
With Fabio Capello set to name his selection for Tuesday's friendly in Denmark on Saturday evening, Grant said he could think of no reason why the 30-year-old should not be called-up.
When asked if Parker should be included, the manager's answer was a resounding 'Yes'.
"No doubt, No doubt," said Grant. "Tell me one midfield player that is in better shape than Scott Parker? I was a national coach and I don't want to [tell Fabio who to pick]. I know Fabio very well and it is good for him that he will have a player like this in is squad in his condition.
"I saw many players in my life and coached many top players and I did not see, and I can say that, a better professional than him.
"He is one of the most professional players I have ever seen. I have watched English football for more than 30 years and I like the English tradition of players who give everything without agents and other things around.
"Scott is one of them. Scott comes to the game - you can say he is good, you can say that he is bad, but he always gives more than 100 per cent. On difficult days he was there for us."
Grant said it was not just Parker's ability that would have impressed watchers - including Capello - but also his character and knack of producing the goods whatever the circumstances surrounding him.
"I am sure about this. I was a national coach, and I know that in the league, things can change. In the national team, things cannot change - you have a game, maybe a second game, then a vacation or break.
"You need players that come and give everything on the certain day and characters are very important."
Parker may be ready to shine again at international level, but the manager knows a call-up is only being talked about because of the player's consistent displays at club level.
While the likes of Robert Green, James Tomkins and Mark Noble have also stepped up to the plate regularly this term, Grant was also in no doubt when asked if Parker was the most influential player in his squad.
"I think yes - with his influence on and off the pitch, he is an example for the others in dealing with a situation that is not easy."